A Simple Stitch, A Time to Mend

Chapter One

OH, THIS CAN’T BE GOOD…

Shop closed. Floors swept. Shelves refreshed with new yarns and even a new display for Monday. Finally, Saturday afternoon never felt so good. Time seemed to drag on this week at A Simple Stitch. With summer quickly approaching and school out yesterday, it was understandable for Main Street to seem a bit deserted, but this year, it was more obvious than ever. Either that or Eliza had a feeling of unrest lately that caused it to seem so. It didn’t matter now because she had everything in her old truck, Bittersweet, and was heading out to Slipknot for a much needed weekend to refresh. The winters in Spring Forrest weren’t bad, and it had been a mild spring this year. Just a touch of cabin fever nevertheless is what Eliza kept telling herself anyway. After all, this blessed life was all she ever wanted.

As she drove off, she spotted CJ outside the Café sweeping up and killing time. She blasted her horn and waved as she zipped by. He thought it was unusual she didn’t stop in to see if he had any leftovers or plans for the weekend.

That’s odd, he muttered to himself as he started back inside. Hey, Uncle Ben, did you see Eliza just go blasting out of town?

Uncle Ben, coming from the kitchen with his jacket in one hand and a stack of clean aprons in the other nodded as he walked up to the counter. Yep, I sure did, and can’t say I blame her. This has been a long, long week. She needs some sun on her shoulders and dirt under her nails. She gets that from her roots growing up in the country. When the weather broke, and school was out, Mimzie would turn the four of us out to pasture, as she put it. Get out and blow the stink off, she would say as the door slammed behind us. Think we came in a bit stinkier than we were when we went out, but Mimzie sure was in a better mood! Raising the four of us at her age had to be trying. Grandparents are supposed to spoil the grandkids and send them home. We were certainly blessed that she and Papa took us in. I know we gave them our share of problems. Your mom and Eliza, now that was quite a pair! I could go on and on, but you have probably heard most of it, and I want to get out of here as bad as you do. I’m sure Molly has something on the list to do outside this afternoon.

With that, Uncle Ben went out the door. CJ could still, hear him mumbling to himself as he went down the steps.

Windows down, the sun on her face and the radio blasting, Eliza felt better already. It was always a beautiful drive out to Slipknot Farm. The Homestead was such a big part of her life. The family history was priceless. As she drove, thoughts of getting out furniture and sweeping away the winter remains were on her mind. She hoped that by evening, she would be sitting outside on the porch swing with a cup of coffee and a quilt around her shoulders stargazing until she couldn’t keep her eyes open, then off to bed to sleep until she woke on her own. How she had been longing for a weekend like this. As she passed El and Em’s Farmer's Market, she looked for the girls. Nowhere to be seen yet, it was a bit early to start planting, but certain they had their heads together planning, no doubt. By now her thoughts were like a bug zapper, sizzling here and there at random about what to do first. Freshening up the linens in the bedroom crossed her mind just as she turned into the lane. The daffodils were about to come to an end and the hosta shoots were popping up like spikes all around them.

What a great idea that was, she blurted out loud as she continued slowly up the drive. Just then she found herself trying to focus on the leaning ladder that had apparantly been left up against Oliver’s cabin, next to the end of the gutter. Suddenly reality slapped her in the face, and she hurried to see what was going on. Oliver was not as young as he thought he was. Parking the truck, she thought she heard him call out her name. Then she heard a cry for help. She bolted from the truck, rushing around the end of the cabin, where she found Oliver moaning in pain.

Boy, am I glad to see you, Eliza, he greeted her trying not to sound as if he was in too much distress. That old ladder spit me right off just as I reached the gutter! I think I may have hurt my leg. Help me into the house, would you?

First of all, I will help you, but not into the house. I’m not even sure I can get you into my truck.

What would I want to get into your truck for? he argued.

Because the hospital is too far to walk, if you could walk, which I don’t think you can, and from here, I think your leg may be broken. I know I’m no expert on the matter, but I really don’t think it should be bent like it is, where it is! Now, I’m calling CJ, and hopefully, he won’t be too far away. If he can’t help, I’m calling an ambulance.

She knew he would argue the fact, and was trying to keep her own composure, when all she wanted to do was cry, for her brother, most of all, but also for herself, as there went her weekend plans. No matter. She knew Oliver needed help. Catching CJ, he was now on the way. If they could only manage to get him up and in the truck. Back to talk to Oliver and keep him calm, she realized that his leg might not be the only issue here. With that thought, she called CJ back and asked him to have an ambulance sent out, just for safety sake.

Relax if you can, Auntie, I’ve already called one, and I’m on my way. When you said he took a fall like that, I had the same thing in mind. Keep him quiet until we arrive. Are you doing ok? You sound shaken.

I’m all right I suppose. It hurts me to see him in pain like this. I don’t know how long he laid there.

Don’t worry, help is on the way, just try and talk to him until we get there.

So, Oliver, how long have you been down here? Eliza asked trying to stay calm and not start crying.

Oh, I don’t really know. It hasn’t been much more than an hour or so. I came out after I had dinner. Blasted gutter has been clogged, and I thought I’d check them all out today. Are you going to help me up or not?

Looking at him and seeing his lips move, not really concentrating on his conversation, Eliza couldn’t help but notice how her brother was aging. He always was a stately man, a man of substance and distinguished looking, but lying here, he looked helpless. He was not frail by any means, but it was unsettling to see him in this season of life where definite changes were taking hold of him.

I called CJ, and he is on his way out to help us. I don’t want to hurt you or myself trying to get you up. Can’t have both of us lying here on the ground now can we? Eliza smiled as she took his hand. It was like ice. I’m going to grab a quilt and try to warm you up a bit. Next time, try landing in the sunshine, would you! she tried to joke as she ran into the cabin. Out in a flash with a quilt, she covered him up and sat on the ground beside him. Now are you going to let me get you a cell phone?

Eliza, if you get me off this ground, I will let you do anything you want. My back is getting stiff, and I’d like to get a drink of water. What’s that noise?

Since you will let me do anything I want as you put it, that is an ambulance, and I see CJ right in front of it. We want to get you to the hospital without doing anymore damage. Just relax, and we will get through this, and with that, she broke out in tears.

Oh, for crying out loud Eliza, settle down. I’m going to be fine. You know that, and I’m not even going to grumble about the ambulance. I know I’ve really pulled a good one this time.

As CJ jumped out, he quickly ran over and stopped, not knowing which of them to comfort first. So, you two make a fine pair, he said trying to lighten the mood, but a bit weak seeing them in this situation. Ever heard of cell phones?

The paramedics were right behind him and quickly went to work on Oliver. Eliza and CJ walked around the end of the cabin to talk out of earshot.

Oh, CJ, you have no idea how I felt when I drove in and found him like that. I always think he is getting up there and doesn’t need to be out here alone, but I know his heart is here. It would be harder for him to sit alone with nothing to do in town than take care of the Homestead. His life is here. What am I going to do? she sobbed.

First let’s get him checked out and see what we are dealing with. Then we will all sit down and talk about the situation. Please calm down. I haven’t cried in front of people for quite a while. Don’t bring me to tears. Please.

Just about begging, CJ brought Eliza out of her sobbing into an uncontrollable laughing spell. I’m sorry, I just can’t help it, she sputtered as she tried to hold onto CJ’s arm. If you knew what I was like on the inside before I found him, you would totally understand! I’ll stop, I promise. With that, she wiped her eyes and started back to see how they were doing.

Oliver was on a stretcher, and all CJ could think of was how frail his uncle looked. He hadn’t thought of him that way ever. Uncle Oliver was always the first one in on any project, leading the way. Times were changing at Slipknot, and no one was ready for that.

As they drove off, CJ drove behind with Eliza in Bittersweet. He didn’t want her driving or being alone at this point. When they pulled up at the Emergency door, Lilly was the first one out with the E.R. doctor right behind her. Eliza felt a tremendous relief to see a familiar face. Lilly had belonged to Girls Knit Out for quite some time now. She immediately knew Oliver was in good hands. Fortunately, she hadn’t seen Lilly at work before now.

So, Mr. Oliver, what do we have here? Lilly said in a pleasant tone. Heard you fell from a ladder. What were you doing on a ladder, home alone in the first place? she said shaking her finger and her head! She did get a smile out of him, even with all the pain he was in. I can scold you a little if I want to since you managed to break your leg but not your neck, this time anyway. So, have we learned anything here? She waited for an answer.

Oliver, with a sour look on his face, closed his eyes and mumbled, Not much, did you? He recognized Lilly from a visit or two at Slipknot in the past. Knowing she was a friend of Eliza’s, he wasn’t going to give her too much power.

The ER doctor ordered tests so let’s get you into x-ray and see what the damage is, Lilly said then looked at CJ and Eliza, You can just wait here, we won’t be gone long, she said on the way out the door. They decided not to call anyone else until they found out what the doctor needed to do.

You know what I’m thinking about this situation? CJ asked Eliza.

Well, I’m not sure. Do I? You have a strange look on your face like you are going to be the wise one here.

Someone has to be! he winked, not wanting to upset her any more than she already was. I’ve seen you struggling with something lately that even you can’t pinpoint. I don’t know what it is either, but I’ve never seen you restless like this. I think this accident was just an answered prayer. We don’t know how bad Uncle Oliver is hurt, but we do know he won’t be up and around much. I think it is time you move out to Slipknot. Not for good, but for a good while. He is going to need help, and you need to get back to your roots.

What about my shop? What about my apartment? What… she stopped and said, that stuff isn’t important now. Oliver is. Let’s see what the doctor has to say before we jump to any conclusions. She sat down, put her face in her hands and sobbed and prayed.

CJ saw Lilly in the hall and stepped out to see how things were going. I don’t know if you remember me, he started off, but I’m CJ. I have the Café across the street from A Simple Stitch.

Of course I know you, CJ. Not as well as I would like to, but through Eliza. She thinks you are the best! she smiled. Now, don’t worry about your Uncle Oliver, he is going to bounce back from this just fine. He is a tough old bird, as they would have said in his generation. I think they were known as colorful characters in their day.

CJ laughed, You are right about that. Do you know my Uncle Ben, Aunt Eliza’s other brother? He works with me daily at the Café? There is a lot of ‘character’ in their entire generation. Glad it didn’t rub off on me! he grinned.

Yeah, right, I told you I know you through Eliza. Who are you trying to kid? How is Eliza holding up now? Is there anything I can get for her, or you? Oliver should be back soon.

Is there anywhere I can get her a cup of coffee? She is pretty upset. I can get it if you are willing to talk with her. I’m glad you are such a good friend.

Just down the hall, the nurse’s station is right there. They will give you a cup of coffee for her, and anything you might need, don’t be shy. I’ll step in with Eliza, take your time.

Eliza was so happy to see Lilly. They sat and talked about the situation with Oliver living at the Homestead alone. Knowing it was not the end of the world, Eliza calmed down and even laughed a bit. Just as CJ returned with the coffee, the doctor came in and re-assured them Oliver would be fine. A simple fracture in his lower leg, they were casting him now, and he would be sore for a week or so from the fall itself, but no further damage.

I would say he used up his luck for this year, the doctor said with a shake of the head. Hopefully he will stay off the ladders from now on. He’s not as young as he thinks he is. Does he have anyone that lives with him or can help him?

Eliza quickly spoke up, assuring the doctor that Oliver would be well taken care of but thoughts were swirling in her head just as to how. It wasn’t like he could come and stay with her, climbing the steps, and in an apartment, he would be climbing the walls. At the same time, she didn’t like the thought of the Homestead sitting vacant. There had to be a simple solution. It cannot be this hard.

Why don’t you move him over to the Homestead and go out and stay with him? CJ spoke up. Easy-peasy, as you would say!

Perfect! Eliza just shook her head. What would I do without you?

Probably come up with the very same answer on your own. It’s not rocket science. Besides that, I think this may solve two problems at one time.

Just what is that supposed to mean? she questioned him with an inquisitive look on her face.

You haven’t been yourself. Something distant about you, like an emptiness. I thought it was winter at first, then spring arrived, and you didn’t shake it. I think some extended time at the Homestead is what you both need.

It will take time to get it ready. There’s no food, and I need to freshen the linens. Perhaps Aunt Mildred could drive out during the day while I open the shop.

Just then the doctor spoke up, That all sounds like a plan falling into place, but one thing at a time. Mr. Oliver, you aren’t going anywhere for a day or two. I am admitting you. That leg, even though casting was easy, is going to put you in a lot of discomfort until the swelling goes down, not to mention the fall you took. You haven’t felt the full impact of that landing yet. You are a fortunate man. Did you get dizzy or off balance? What exactly caused you to fall from the ladder?

Do you see these two lumps? Oliver asked as he pointed to the back of his neck and right shoulder.

No, I hadn’t noticed. Is that from the fall? the doctor asked.

Not caused by the fall—caused the fall. There was a wasp nest on the eve by the gutter. I didn’t notice it until I was up there. As I reached up to start cleaning the gutter, I must have disturbed the nest, next thing I knew, here came one at my head and a second one right behind it with both legs up and aiming its stinger at me like he was on a mission. I knew I was in for it. I think he even had a little smile on his face! As I tried to dodge them, I lost my balance, and there I went with the ladder right behind. No health problems, no balance problems, just insect problems. Can I please get some rest now? This has really been a long day. Oliver laid his head back on the pillow, closed his eyes and mumbled to Eliza, I guess you will be back to see me in the morning. Bring me some clean clothes, would you kindly. They cut the leg of my favorite overalls! Not necessary, not necessary at all, he mumbled then gently started to snore.

The pain medicine had kicked in. Oliver looked peaceful. They had his room ready, and he was most likely going to be out for the evening. CJ drove Eliza home, and they started talking about plans for the weeks to come.

Eliza was exhausted by the time she got everything locked up at Oliver’s and checked on the animals at the Homestead. Several phone calls were made, first and most important to Aunt Mildred.

Of course I can go out and spend the mornings with Oliver, dear. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Now you just put your mind at ease and get some rest tonight. You are going to have plenty to do when he gets out of the hospital.

Eliza fixed a cup of coffee and made her way to the porch swing with a quilt and propped her feet up on the bench she pulled over to set her cup on. She knew it would not be a night that was easy to fall asleep. As she tried to relax, her mind kept wandering back to Oliver lying in the bushes. What a fright that was. If she hadn’t come out when she did, who knows how long he would have been lying there. As her eyes began to well up again, she shook her head, as if to force the vision out. Knowing she had to get rid of this state of mind, she decided to walk out and check on the horses. Pete and JoJo would be glad to see her. As she opened the barn door, there they stood. The sight of the big brown eyes gazing back at her was wonderful. As she began to talk to the horses and clean up the barn a bit, she let them out in the corral for a while and sat on the fence to watch them run. What a comforting sight. It didn’t take long for her to settle down and let Slipknot start the healing she desperately needed.

Soon she found herself back on the porch swing with a second cup of coffee. Just then, she saw headlights coming up the lane. It was just about dusk, and she was not expecting anyone. She got up and walked toward the drive. CJ and Annie. What a pleasant surprise. If anyone could make her relax it was them.

What are you two doing out here so late? she asked, already knowing CJ wouldn’t be satisfied until he knew she was all right.

Just felt like driving out. It has been quite a day, so we wanted to make sure you had supper. I fixed you some leftovers and picked up a few things for tomorrow. Uncle Oliver seemed to be settling in. I think he was pretty loaded with pain killers, so he should sleep like a baby. I hadn’t seen Lilly at work before. She was pretty amazing at calming everyone down. I’ve heard a lot of good things about her, he went on.

She is a number one trauma nurse, Annie spoke up. We all admire her for the gift she has. Not everyone could handle the E.R.

So, how did your last day of school go? Are you looking forward to summer? Got big plans?

Well, actually, we are planning a camping trip with Amanda and her husband soon. This school year, Amanda and I got very close during the time we spent together at her book store. My class had a couple of field trips, and they chose to end the outing at Amanda’s Book Nook. She really showed them a great time, so they wanted to go back. She and her husband asked us to go on a camping trip with them, and even though I’ve never been camping, it sounded like fun to me! Annie rambled, as Annie often does.

I tried to talk her out of it. I really tried, but no changing her mind. I don’t think she really knows what camping is all about. Live and learn, like Mimzie probably said one time or another, right Auntie?

Oh, CJ, you have no idea how many times we heard that growing up. Honestly, she was right. I’m fairly certain this trip will be an adventure. When are you planning to go, and for how long on this maiden voyage? Eliza couldn’t help but smile.

We are planning to leave next Thursday, taking a four day weekend, but if we need to stay close by to help you out, there will always be another camping trip down the line.

Don’t you dare change your plans for me! Oliver should be home and settled in by then, and you are a cell phone call away if I need you. Not like you’re heading to Canada or somewhere, is it?

No, just up a few miles closer to the mountains. Amanda said they have been there once before. Just an hour or so away.

I think it is going to be fun, doesn’t it sound like fun CJ? Annie went on in an excited, childlike voice.

Oh, yes, Annie, I think it is going to be fun all right. In fact, fun may be an understatement. I’m looking forward to it anyway, he commented. For now, is there anything else we can help you with out here Eliza? That’s why we drove out. Is everything taken care of at Uncle Oliver’s? We saw Pete and JoJo out in the corral. We can stay the night if you need company.

Honestly, CJ, I appreciate everything, but I’m fine, really, I will be fine, Eliza reassured them. I am actually looking forward to being at the Homestead this summer. I spend too much time in that apartment and shop. It could have been under better circumstances though. Poor Oliver.

I thought you loved your apartment and enjoyed the time spent at your wonderful shop? Annie questioned. You are always so happy with your life. You have been a great example for me.

Please don’t misunderstand me. I do love my life, my shop, my apartment, why it is my home. I’ve just been a bit restless lately. It seems like I’m searching for something. The funny thing is, I don’t know what I’m searching for. I lead a very full, blessed life. It’s something I can’t put my finger on. Perhaps this change may be what I need.

All right then, if you are sure you will be safe for the night we are going to head back to town. I have a few holes to patch on my old boy scout tent; if I can find the poles. It should suit us just fine for this first adventure in the wild, smiling, he put his arm around Annie’s shoulder, and they went out the door. Good night Eliza, sweet dreams!

The evening was quiet. Eliza was a bit more tired than she thought she was. The stars lit up the sky, the bugs were singing, and the birds had all gone to roost. Sitting quietly on the swing, she emptied her mind of the day and drifted off. When she heard her cup hit the porch floor, startled and not knowing where she was for a split second, Eliza decided it was bedtime. She could make calls and decisions tomorrow. Thank goodness for Aunt Mildred.

As Eliza went into the house, she only made it a few steps inside the door until she stopped. It was as if she was suddenly overtaken by emotions that she had never felt before. Sobbing uncontrollably, she sat on the floor and let her tears flow. So unlike her, always the strength of the family, uplifting to her friends, welcoming to her customers, Eliza found herself in a situation she didn’t know how to handle. It came to surface that never in her life had she felt so alone. It wasn’t because Oliver was in the hospital or because CJ and Annie left and she was at the Homestead by herself. It was much deeper than that. It was the feeling that had been eating at her for days, maybe weeks or even longer.

OK, enough of this foolishness, Eliza scolded herself out loud as if it would fix everything. But of course, it did not. She stood up, continued into the bathroom and turned on the shower. As the room started to steam up, she found pajamas in the bedroom, opened the window to get some fresh air in and turned down her bed. Still sobbing she stepped into the shower and let the water flood her face. She started to relax. Drying off with her coarse cotton towel that had been dried on the clothesline just she she liked them and slipping into her cotton pajamas, the world started to seem right again. Once in bed, an extra-long prayer said, she drifted off to sleep. And sleep she did.

Up early and off to what she hoped would be the fresh start of a gorgeous day, Eliza hurried around the Homestead to ready a room for Oliver. She wanted him to be comfortable when he came home. It was going to be a huge adjustment for him. Not sure how he would handle staying in the house with her and being taken care of, she wanted this necessary transition to go as smoothly as possible.

As she walked into the hospital room, Oliver was still in bed looking out the window.

Well, good morning! Eliza greeted him with enthusiasm in her voice, hoping to start off positively.

Morning, he managed to mumble at her.

This was so unlike the Oliver she knew, and the exact response she was hoping to avoid.

Have you had your breakfast yet or seen the doctor?

If you can call it breakfast, it was here, but the doctor wasn’t. How long do you think I will have to lie here before he manages to drop by?

Well, I don’t know, but I would be glad to go to the nurse’s station to see what is going on if you want me to. Did you sleep well, are you in any pain? she questioned.

Pain not so much, and I guess I slept, don’t remember, so must have slept. I think whatever is in the shots helped with that. It sure isn’t quiet in here. Are you going or not?

With that, Eliza turned and went out into the hall to see if she could find out what was going on. His demeanor had her upset, but it was exactly what she